Empire: World History 34. The Sick Man of Europe
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Feb 21, 2023 
Eugene Rogan, a distinguished historian of the Ottomans at St Antony's College, Oxford, shares his deep expertise on the declining Ottoman Empire. He delves into the rising nationalism in the Balkans, the challenges Sultan Abdülhamid II faced, and the paradox of his reforms amid authoritarian rule. Rogan highlights the significance of the Young Turks in reshaping the empire's political landscape and discusses the complex geopolitical choices leading up to World War I. His insights reveal a transformative period fraught with tension and potential.
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Abdul Hamid II's Inheritance
- Abdul Hamid II inherited a crumbling empire facing bankruptcy, invasions, and nationalist revolts.
- He ascended the throne after a tumultuous period with three sultans in a single year.
Early Reign of Abdul Hamid II
- Initially, Abdul Hamid II was seen as a beacon of hope, embracing reform and open to Europe.
- He even lit his guests' cigarettes, a stark contrast to his predecessors.
Shifting Public Opinion
- Reports of atrocities in Bulgaria and against Armenians damaged Abdul Hamid II's reputation.
- These events shifted British public opinion against the Ottoman Empire, notably influenced by Gladstone's writings.
